Organizer Information
Founded in 1817, the Kunstverein in Hamburg is one of Germany's oldest and most prestigious art associations. For over two centuries, the institution has dedicated itself to the presentation and mediation of contemporary artistic positions, serving as a vital platform for constructive dialogue regarding the future of art. As a center for artistic production, exhibition-making, and critical discourse, the Kunstverein is committed to artists who challenge conventional perspectives on social issues. The association aims to transcend economic and political differences through the language of art, hosting an average of six major exhibitions annually alongside an extensive public evening program.
Title & Description
Assistant Curator at Kunstverein in Hamburg (Full-Time)
The Kunstverein in Hamburg is seeking a dedicated and professionally driven Assistant Curator to join their international team. This role is designed for an individual who is passionate about the logistics, administrative rigor, and creative conceptualization involved in running a world-class contemporary art space. The successful candidate will work closely with the Director to realize complex exhibition projects, manage artist relations, and develop engaging public programs. This is a rare opportunity to gain high-level experience in institutional curation, focusing on navigating the intersection of artistic vision and practical implementation.
The Role Overview
- Position: Assistant Curator (Assistenzkurator:in)
- Organization: Kunstverein in Hamburg
- Contract Type: Full-time employment
- Working Hours: 39 hours per week
- Contract Duration: Initially limited to 3 years
- Starting Date: 1 August 2026 (flexible upon agreement)
- Location: Hamburg, Germany
- Reporting To: Direction / Curatorial Leadership of the Kunstverein
- Benefits Included: Christmas bonus, job ticket, paid vacation
- Language Requirement: Excellent German skills in both written and spoken communication
Position & Tasks
- Legal & Administration: Drafting and reviewing loan agreements and exhibition contracts.
- Logistics: Managing transport, customs formalities, and exhibition insurance, including damage processing.
- Exhibition Management: Overseeing the installation and deinstallation of shows; creating and maintaining financial, time, and production plans.
- Fundraising: Developing and drafting project grant applications.
- Editorial & Research: Researching and writing texts within the exhibition context and supervising publications.
- Programming: Conceptualizing exhibition framework programs, annual membership programs, and the annual "Jahresgaben" (editions) exhibition.
- Public Relations: Regularly leading exhibition tours and maintaining contact with artists, sponsors, members, and urban communities.
Categories
The position spans multiple disciplines within the Art Management and Curatorial sectors, including:
- Visual Art
- Curatorial Studies
- Exhibition Production
- Art Administration
- Cultural Mediation
Eligibility
- Professional Level: Candidates should have relevant experience in exhibition management or curatorial assistance.
- Language: Must have excellent German language skills (written and spoken).
- Work Status: Open to candidates with the legal right to work in Germany.
- Profile: The Kunstverein seeks individuals who are organized, communicative, and capable of working within a motivated, international team.
Program Benefits
- Career Development: High-level responsibility in a globally recognized art institution.
- Financial Perks: Competitive salary (based on institutional standards), Christmas bonus, and subsidized public transit (Jobticket).
- Work-Life Balance: 30 days of annual leave.
- Environment: Integration into a motivated, international team and a central role in the Hamburg contemporary art scene.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover Letter/Motivation Letter (detailing relevant experience and earliest possible start date)
- Relevant Certificates/Diplomas
- References or Portfolio of previous curatorial work (optional but recommended)
How to Apply?
Applications should be sent via email to Milan Ther at: hallo@kunstverein.de
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 21 June 2026
- Interview Dates: June 29 and 30, 2026
- Start Date: August 1, 2026 (A later start date may be negotiated).
Location
Hamburg, Germany.
Additional Details
Candidates should note that while the role includes conceptual work, a significant portion involves administrative and logistical precision (contracts, insurance, transport). The Kunstverein is looking for someone who finds as much fulfillment in the successful "behind-the-scenes" organization of a show as they do in the public-facing curatorial discourse.